Celebrating 130 Years of Motorsport: Mercedes-AMG Unveils the GT3 ‘Edition 130Y Motorsport’

​Mercedes-AMG, the motorsport and performance division of the legendary German automaker, is marking 130 years of motorsport heritage with a fitting tribute: the AMG GT3 ‘Edition 130Y Motorsport.’ Unveiled at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in California, this special edition race car isn’t just a showpiece. It represents a historical milestone, paying homage to over a century of racing excellence and innovation.

But this isn’t merely a nod to the past; the Edition 130Y Motorsport is also a swan song for AMG’s iconic 6.3-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine, which is bowing out after an illustrious tenure in motorsport. With only 13 units produced, priced at EUR 1,030,000 (approximately ₹9.5 crore) each, the car is a collector’s dream and a technical marvel.

A Legacy That Began in 1894

Mercedes-Benz’s motorsport legacy is rooted in history, with its first victory dating back to July 22, 1894, at the Paris-Rouen race. That triumph solidified Daimler’s reputation as a pioneer in performance engineering and racing excellence. The Edition 130Y Motorsport commemorates this historic achievement, embodying 130 years of technological progress, innovation, and racing dominance under the iconic Three-Pointed Star.

Performance Beyond Limits

The beating heart of the Edition 130Y Motorsport is AMG’s revered 6.3-liter M156 V8. Known for its ferocious power delivery and unmistakable roar, the engine produces an astounding 680 horsepower at 7,250 rpm and a robust 730 Nm of torque. While modern turbocharged engines boast significantly higher torque figures, the naturally aspirated V8 delivers an unparalleled level of responsiveness and emotion—a rarity in today’s motorsport landscape.

Paired with a rear-mounted six-speed sequential gearbox, the car is engineered for precision and agility on the racetrack. Carbon ceramic brakes, inspired by Formula 1 technology, ensure impeccable stopping power, meeting GT3 competition standards.

The Edge on the Track

The aerodynamic refinement of the Edition 130Y Motorsport sets it apart. Engineers have reduced overall downforce by 15%, balancing the car for faster straight-line speeds and improved handling dynamics. This is achieved through significant updates, including:

• A revised front splitter.
• Louvres mounted on the fenders.
• An optimized underbody.
• An enhanced rear diffuser.

The pièce de résistance is the Drag Reduction System (DRS), operated via a steering wheel-mounted button. This system adjusts the rear wing to a flat position, reducing drag and enabling higher speeds on straights, a feature inspired by Formula 1 and DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters).

Cutting-Edge Suspension and Safety Features

Underneath the lightweight body, the Edition 130Y boasts a fully adjustable four-way motorsport suspension system. These shock absorbers are finely tuned to adapt to various track conditions, ensuring precise handling and maximum performance.

Safety is paramount in motorsport, and the Edition 130Y leaves no stone unturned. Features include:

• A carbon fiber safety cell integrated into the chassis.
• A steel roll cage.
• A five-point harness system.
• Safety nets and an emergency hatch.
• A fire extinguishing system.
• A safety tank compliant with FIA regulations.
• Track-Record Dominance

The Edition 130Y Motorsport is not just a collectible, it’s a track beast. With professional AMG driver Jules Gounon at the helm, the prototype obliterated the GT car lap record at the famed Mount Panorama Circuit in Australia. Clocking a blistering time of 1 minute 56.605 seconds, it shaved an impressive 2.074 seconds off the previous record on the challenging 6.213-kilometer track.

A Collector’s Dream

Limited to just 13 units, the Edition 130Y Motorsport is crafted to be an exclusive masterpiece for discerning collectors. Each car reflects AMG’s dedication to craftsmanship, performance, and a celebration of its motorsport lineage. At EUR 1,030,000 apiece, it is a high-ticket item, but for motorsport enthusiasts, it’s a priceless piece of history.

End of an Era

The AMG GT3 Edition 130Y Motorsport is more than a race car: it’s a farewell to one of AMG’s most celebrated engines. In an era where electrification dominates the conversation, this V8-powered machine serves as a reminder of motorsport’s visceral and mechanical roots.

As the industry transitions to cleaner energy solutions, the Edition 130Y Motorsport pays homage to the legacy of combustion-powered greatness. It’s a testament to 130 years of motorsport innovation while heralding a future where AMG’s pioneering spirit continues to lead the way.

With another iconic engine laid to rest, the Edition 130Y Motorsport ensures that its roar will echo in the annals of automotive history for years to come.

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